Nation To Nation: MMIWG Chief Commissioner is asked to resign

Nation to Nation The Inquiry dominated the morning session at the Assembly of First Nations special chief’s assembly Thursday.

Inquiry Chief Commissioner Marion Buller gave a presentation, noting that more work needs to be done. And how she will initiate a plan to formally ask the federal government for more time and money, at least a two year extension.

After her presentation, Buller heard sharp criticism from the floor microphones.

“There’s a stark reality between the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and this national inquiry on missing and murdered women,” said Judy Wilson of the Neskonlith First Nation in British Columbia.

“Why?” she asked. “Was it about the money? Was it about the organization or is it about how it’s being led?”

“It is nothing but a gong show, a circus show,” said Jocelyn Wabano-Iahtail, whose daughter was killed in 2001.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okamakanak Grand Chief Sheila North was even more pointed in her comments.

“I have to tell you and I’m kind of repulsed that you’re actually here because in the summertime you didn’t even acknowledge our concerns,” she said.

“We saw a commission that is falling apart and is not doing the work that the women and children and men fought for,” North continued. “And I’m sorry to say that but I think you have to go. You need to step down to salvage this inquiry.”

North explained further to Nation to Nation host Todd Lamirande why she wants Buller to step down.

“She seems cold. She seems like she’s leading by her head and she should be leading by her heart.”

After Buller’s departure the chiefs in assembly voted in favour of a resolution to support the Inquiry’s attempt to seek an extension and an amendment to the resolution called on Buller to step down.